Jeremiah's Music Blog: Peter Gabriel: For REAL

Peter Gabriel: For REAL

Several months ago, Peter Gabriel's REALWORLD label offered a remix contest to producers worldwide. Via RW's website, they provided raw tracks from several RW CD's, including Peter's own "Shock The Monkey." (login required to download.)

A couple of days ago, Peter announced the four winners, and posted the best remixes online. There's some real talent out there in the remix world, and I'm encouraged to see artists like Gabriel embracing not only the philosophy, but the technology (literally: the means) of remixing. It does seem to breathe new life into older recordings.

The winning remix, titled "Simian Surprise" by remixer "Multiman" really captured Peter's ear, and after hearing the track, it's really easy to understand why Gabriel liked it so much: it sounds just like a PG record. On one hand, I wish Gabriel had been a bit more brave and embraced some remixes that don't sound like a REALWORLD product. On the other hand, it's his baby - he can do as he pleases. I'm not at all disappointed with the results of the competition, mind you - I'd just hoped for a little more breadth in the winner's circle.

For artists who are remix-inclined, RW has made available additional sample packs from various REALWORLD artists (including my faves Afro Celt Sound System) that can be downloaded from RW. Hello, Purefunk??

Photo by Kenny Math.

Posted by Jeremiah at October 7, 2006 01:52 PM | Tag This Post | Digg It!